The Power of Bodywork in Pregnancy: A Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist’s Perspective

Pregnancy is one of the most transformative experiences a woman can go through—physically, emotionally, and mentally. As a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact bodywork can have on a woman’s comfort, mobility, and overall well-being throughout her pregnancy journey. Yet, this essential aspect of prenatal care is often overlooked or misunderstood.

It’s time to change that.

What Is “Bodywork” During Pregnancy?

Bodywork is a broad term that refers to therapeutic touch, movement, and manual techniques that support the body’s structure and function. For pregnant women, this includes a variety of interventions—internal and external soft tissue massage, myofascial release, alignment work, stretching, and guided movement—all tailored to the unique needs of the pregnant body.

When performed by a trained Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, bodywork becomes even more powerful. We address the whole system: the spine, hips, pelvic floor, abdominal wall, diaphragm, posture, and breath mechanics—all of which work together to support both mother and baby.

Why It Matters

As the baby grows, the body adapts. Ligaments become more lax causing the surrounding muscles to work harder, the center of gravity shifts, and internal pressure increases.

These changes, while natural, can lead to discomfort, compensation patterns, urinary/bowel dysfunction, and more. Common complaints like low back pain, pelvic pressure, round ligament pain, or pubic symphysis dysfunction don’t have to be “just part of pregnancy.”

Bodywork helps:

• Reduce pain and tension in areas like the low back, pelvis, hips, and ribs

• Improve alignment for more efficient movement and reduced compensation

• Support pelvic floor and core function to prepare for birth and postpartum recovery

• Promote optimal baby positioning by creating balance and space in the pelvis

• Facilitate relaxation and connection between the mind and body for improved overall control

When you feel better in your body, you move better, sleep better, breathe deeper, and often feel more confident in the birth process.

A Preventative Approach

Too often, women are told to wait until something is “bad enough” to seek help. But bodywork is most effective as a preventative and supportive tool—something that helps you stay ahead of discomfort and feel prepared throughout your pregnancy.

Preventative care also means being proactive about pelvic floor and deep core function, pelvic alignment, and breathing mechanics to reduce the risk of postpartum challenges like diastasis recti, perineal tearing, incontinence, or prolapse. Investing in your body before birth is one of the most effective ways to improve outcomes afterward.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy doesn’t have to be a time of discomfort or disconnection. With the right tools and support, it can be an empowering season of preparation and self-awareness.

Bodywork, especially when guided by a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist or other prenatal specialist, isn’t just about relief—it's about empowerment. It's about honoring the changing body, supporting the mother, and creating the space for both strength and relaxation as she prepares to bring her child into the world.

You deserve to feel supported. You deserve to feel well. Let’s make bodywork a normalized part of pregnancy care.

Dr. Taylor Thompson

DPT, RYT | EmpowerHER Pelvic PT